The fact that we have as many words for the colour blue as the Inuits proverbially do for snow is evidence of how intrinsic the colour is to our everyday lives. Whether it's cornflower, navy, cerulean, azure or lapis, blue remains a staple colour for shirts because of its welcome versatility. The blue shirt in its lighter, plainer incarnations sees you through the day with a timeless formality that works as well in the office as it does in a restaurant. Employed in a pattern or a stronger shade, the code-free colour clears any hint of fussiness and makes for an investment that works as part of many of this season's key looks (especially when teamed with camel).